FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September, 12, 2024

Momentum Builds as Schaghticoke Tribal Nation Seeks to Reinstate Federal Recognition

National and state tribes, local mayors and state lawmakers put their support behind Schaghticoke’s latest attempt to seek federal recognition

Naugatuck CT – Members of the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation, the oldest state recognized American Indian tribe in Connecticut, held a press conference Thursday flanked by several state and local officials who are supporting their latest bid for federal recognition from the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Members of the tribe first began seeking federal recognition in 1981, more than four decades ago. A brief federal recognition the tribe earned in 2005 was revoked by the BIA - on Columbus Day. The tribe is the only one in the nation to have had recognition revoked.

“We are looking to right the wrong and correct the injustice,” said Chief Richard Velky. “For the members of our tribe, earning recognition is about receiving access to healthcare, housing and education assistance that is available and to secure our reservation.”

In November, more than 500 state and federally recognized tribes unanimously passed a resolution during the National Conference of American Indians to support the Schaghticokes efforts. Officials with both the Pequot and Mohegan tribes also wrote letters in support of federal recognition.

A diverse group of elected officials have been supporting the application, and more are coming on board every day. State lawmakers who are supporting the tribe include State Sen. Cathy Osten, State Sen. Jorge Cabrera, State Rep. Joseph Gresko, State Rep. Geraldo Reyes, State Rep. Anthony Nolan and more. 

Local officials who are supporting federal recognition efforts include Naugatuck Mayor Pete Hess, Danbury Mayor Roberto Alves, Derby Mayor Joseph DiMartino, New Milford Mayor Pete Bass, Shelton Mayor Mark Lauretti, Ansonia Mayor David Cassetti, New London Mayor Michael E. Passero, and more.